The UFC’s new broadcast era with Paramount is already shaping up with key matchups, and one of the most intriguing early bookings is set to take place in the light heavyweight division. Modestas Bukauskas and Nikita Krylov are expected to face off at a UFC event scheduled for January 24, marking one of the first major fight announcements tied to the new broadcast partnership beginning in 2026.
Multiple sources confirmed that bout agreements have been issued, though the official location and event title have not yet been announced. While the UFC has not officially revealed its event schedule for 2026, preparations are clearly underway to kick off the Paramount deal in a strong and exciting fashion.
Modestas Bukauskas enters the fight riding a wave of momentum. The Lithuanian-English contender has secured four consecutive wins and is 6-1 since making his return to the UFC in 2023. He most recently delivered a statement performance in Paris, where he knocked out Paul Craig in the first round. With his confidence at an all-time high, Bukauskas is looking to break into the official light heavyweight rankings and seize a spot among the division’s elite.
Standing in his way is Nikita Krylov, one of the most explosive and experienced fighters at 205 pounds. Known for his aggressive striking and finishing ability, Krylov has been a fixture in the UFC light heavyweight rankings for years. He previously went on an impressive three-fight win streak, defeating notable contenders like Paul Craig, Alexander Gustafsson and Volkan Oezdemir.
However, Krylov is currently aiming to bounce back after suffering back-to-back losses to Dominick Reyes and Bogdan Guskov in his most recent outings. Those defeats came after a lengthy layoff, and Krylov is now determined to prove he is still a dangerous force in the division. A win over a surging contender like Bukauskas would put him right back in the mix.
Stylistically, this matchup promises fireworks. Both fighters are aggressive, both have knockout power, and both are capable of finishing fights on the ground or standing. Bukauskas brings technical striking and composure under pressure, while Krylov offers unpredictability and finishing instincts that have made him one of the most exciting fighters to watch at light heavyweight.
As the UFC prepares to launch its new broadcast era with Paramount, matchups like this one showcase a clear strategy of combining rising talent with established names. If officially announced, Bukauskas vs. Krylov could very well set the tone for what fans can expect from UFC’s next chapter of premium fight entertainment.
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